CEVNI stands for Code Européen des Voies de Navigation Intérieure. It is the code governing navigation on the interconnected European inland waterways and is the basis of the various countries' own regulations.

Signs, rules and procdures for navigating the European inland waterways are all included within the CEVNI code and in the same way as pleasure craft on coastal waters are expected to abide by the COLREGS, pleasure craft on the inland waterways of Europe, which in places are heavily utilised by commercial traffic are expected to know and follow the CEVNI code.

Marine VHF radio is the best way of summoning help.
You can contact the coastguard up to 50 miles off-shore and talk to other yachts up to 15 to 20 miles on the open sea.
If you use a marine VHF radio onboard your yacht you are required, by law, to hold a marine radio operator’s certificate.
This is an interactive on line course followed by a practical assessment and written exam, which on completion, you will be a competent radio operator and know the correct procedure for distress, urgency, safety by means of marine VHF DSC radio.